The jury in the murder trial of retired Auckland eye doctor Philip Polkinghorne has visited the house where his wife, Pauline Hanna, was found dead. This is the 10th day of the trial, where Polkinghorne is accused of murdering Hanna on Easter Monday 2021 and making it look like a suicide.
The defense claims that Polkinghorne found Hanna’s body that morning after they had slept in separate bedrooms. According to the defense, Polkinghorne woke up in the master bedroom, made tea and toast in the kitchen, and then found his wife’s body slouched on a chair, hanging from a balustrade on the staircase.
The jury toured the two-story home, led by Sergeant Christian Iogha, who had given evidence last week. They were not allowed to ask questions or make comments during the visit. Security and court officials were with them as they entered where Hanna’s body had been found, went upstairs to the guest bedroom and bathroom, and then to the master bedroom.
Next, they moved downstairs, following the path the defense says Polkinghorne took that morning. The dining area had a vase of yellow roses on the table. The jury also requested to see the laundry room, where damp sheets were found in the dryer. They did not visit the garden, which was hidden by thick hedges.
The visit lasted about half an hour. After the jury left, another group including prosecutors and the judge toured the property as well. Media were not allowed inside but could report from outside the house.
The trial will continue at 1 PM, with Pauline Hanna’s niece expected to testify on Friday afternoon. If you or someone else is at risk, please call emergency services right away.
